Morocco has secured international recognition for the caftan, which has now been inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The Moroccan caftan was officially added to the list on Wednesday in New Delhi, following a decision taken at the 20th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, held from December 8 to 13.
According to a statement from Morocco’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, this major international recognition reflects the global community’s appreciation of King Mohammed VI’s enlightened vision in preserving cultural heritage, promoting authentic artistic expressions and safeguarding traditional craftsmanship as key drivers of sustainable development and social cohesion.
The inscription underscores the centuries-old richness of the Moroccan caftan, described as a living testimony to the kingdom’s history, plural identity and creative genius.
Passed down and preserved across generations, the caftan symbolises elegance, refinement and the transmission of unique artisanal know-how across Morocco’s regions, the statement said.
The recognition also highlights Morocco’s active and constructive role within UNESCO, as well as its continued commitment to protecting and promoting intangible cultural heritage in all its diversity and historical depth.
Through this decision, the Intangible Heritage Committee commended Morocco’s contribution to safeguarding a living heritage where creativity, identity and intergenerational transmission converge, and which continues to enrich intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding among peoples.
In the wake of the inscription, Morocco reaffirmed its determination to pursue efforts aimed at safeguarding, promoting and passing on the skills and craftsmanship associated with the Moroccan caftan, while reiterating its attachment to the universal values of cultural diversity and mutual respect that underpin UNESCO’s mandate.
A cornerstone of Morocco’s rich cultural mosaic, the caftan combines deep historical roots—shaped by centuries of practice—with strong social significance.
The listing was formally approved by UNESCO despite attempts by Algeria to block what Moroccan authorities describe as a historic vote.
The caftan is widely regarded as a fundamental element of Morocco’s national identity and heritage, dating back more than twelve centuries.
AK/sf/lb/as/APA